Rashid Vally, the visionary behind South Africa’s indie record labels, left an indelible mark on the jazz scene before his passing at the age of 85 on 7 December. In a time of oppressive racial segregation, Vally broke barriers by establishing As-Shams/The Sun, becoming the first person of color in South Africa to own an independent record label. Through his releases, he provided a platform for artists like pianist Abdullah Ibrahim, who used their music to challenge the cultural norms imposed by the apartheid regime.
Starting his journey from a corner shelf in his father’s store, Vally’s passion for music led him to discover and promote new Black jazz talents throughout the 1970s until his last days. His contributions have been integral in documenting the rich history of South African jazz, intertwining his name with the narrative of the genre.
Born in 1939 in Johannesburg to a family with Indian heritage, Vally’s early exposure to music at his father’s grocery store sparked his interest in the record business. By the late 1950s, he had already ventured into recording langarm discs and later expanded his repertoire to include township soul bands, reflecting the diverse musical landscape of South Africa.
Vally’s foray into jazz came after immersing himself in the vibrant music scene of Johannesburg, where he encountered exceptional musicians like Gideon Nxumalo and Dollar Brand. The release of Nxumalo’s “Early Mart” and Brand’s albums marked the beginning of As-Shams/The Sun’s journey into the jazz domain, culminating in the iconic hit “Mannenberg,” which resonated deeply with the anti-apartheid movement.
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As-Shams became a melting pot of musical experimentation and political expression, hosting artists like Harari/The Beaters and Batsumi, who defied conventions and pushed boundaries. Vally’s label became a platform for collaboration across genres and ethnicities, fostering a spirit of unity and creativity that defied apartheid’s divisive policies.
Despite the challenges posed by apartheid-era restrictions on music, Vally remained steadfast in his commitment to promoting diverse voices and perspectives through As-Shams. His collaborations with visual artists like Hargreaves Ntukwana added a visual dimension to the label’s identity, further solidifying its reputation as a hub of creativity and resistance.
Even in his later years, Vally continued to champion new talent and explore archival treasures, ensuring that the legacy of As-Shams/The Sun lives on. His dedication to nurturing the cultural heritage of South Africa through music has left an enduring impact on the country’s artistic landscape, showcasing the power of independent record labels in shaping not just the music industry but also the social and political fabric of a nation.
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